Prescription Cozaar - Through Accessmednet Physician Referral Network

Cozaar is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist, a group of medications used to treat high blood pressure and related cardiovascular conditions. Cozaar helps to control high blood pressure by blocking the hormone angiotensin II from constricting blood vessels.

Your doctor may include a special diet and/or other blood pressure medications along with Cozaar as part of a treatment plan. It is usually taken once or twice a day on an ongoing basis to control high blood pressure. It may take a few weeks to reach full benefits.

Patients using Cozaar should be monitored by their doctors and may need blood tests and blood pressure checks.

Cozaar is non-habit forming and is only available by prescription.

Cozaar Side Effects

Common Side Effects: dizziness headache, lightheadedness. Side effects often occur at the beginning of treatment.

The following side effects should be reported to your doctor immediately, or medical advice sought if your doctor is not available. If they are serious, you will need to contact emergency personnel and seek treatment at once.

Adverse Side Effects: Cough, diarrhea, difficulty breathing or swallowing, dizziness, fainting, fever, rash, sore throat, swelling of face or lips.

For some people other side effects may occur. Report any unusual side effects to your doctor and seek immediate attention if side effects are severe.

Cautions: This medication may not be suitable for everyone, and certain individuals may require dosage adjustments or more careful medical supervision. To ensure the maximum safety and effectiveness of treatment, discuss any current instances or medical history of the following:

• Allergies: Any allergic reaction to an angiotensin II receptor antagonist means that you should not use the drug again. The development of swelling of the tongue, face, or throat should be reported to medical personnel at once, and you should stop taking the medication immediately. Inform your doctor of any food or dye allergies, this might influence a decision on which formulation of the treatment to use.
• Breastfeeding: Do not take Cozaar if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Children: The safety and effectiveness of Cozaar in individuals under the age of 18 has not been adequately studied.
• Kidney Problems: Seek doctor's advice if you have kidney problems.
• Liver Disease: Lower doses will be necessary, usually 25 mg per day. Your doctor will advise you regarding a safe and effective amount.
• Low Sodium Diet: May increase risk of high blood levels of potassium. Speak with your doctor about the best course of treatment.
• Other Medications: Any other prescription or over the counter medications that you take or may plan to take should be discussed with your prescribing physician and pharmacist. It's particularly important to mention treatments for high blood pressure, including diuretics or potassium supplements.
• Pregnancy: Advise your doctor if you are pregnant. Cozaar may harm the fetus and should not be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Prescription Cozaar - Through Accessmednet Physician Referral Network

The following medications may interact with your medication. They may require dosage adjustments, Tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and over the counter medications you are taking, as well as any herbal supplements.

• ACE (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme) Inhibitors - Medications like Accupril (quinapril), Aceon (perindopril), Altace (ramipril), Capoten (captopril), Lotensin (benazepril), Mavik (trandolapril), Monopril (fosinopril), Prinivil or Zestril (lisinopril), Univasc (moexipril), and Vasotec (enalapril) may intensify lowered blood pressure, and should not generally be used as concurrent treatment.
• Alcohol - May lower blood pressure even further. Speak with your doctor about recommended use.
• Azole antifungals - Drugs like Diflucan (fluconazole), Nizoral (ketoconazole), and Sporanox (itraconazole), may effect blood levels of Cozaar.
• Diuretics - Cozaar lowers blood pressure, and diuretics can intensify this effect. However, your doctor may include diuretics as part of a treatment plan. If you become dizzy or faint your doctor may adjust your dosage.
• Lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid) - Some combinations can lead to lithium toxicity.
• Potassium - Do not take any supplements containing potassium without the approval of your doctor. Individuals using angiotensin II receptor antagonists are at risk for elevated levels of blood potassium.
• Tao (Troleandomycin) - May interact with Cozaar. Consult your doctor and pharmacist.
• Vitamins- Seek your doctor's advice before taking vitamin supplements.

Cozaar Dosages

Starting dose is usually 25 mg per day. Usual dosage is 50 mg daily or 25 mg twice daily. Maximum daily dose is 100 mg.

If you have liver problems or are taking other medication, your dosage may be lower, usually 25 mg per day.

Cozaar Directions

For best results, take your medication at the same time every day. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take double doses, or change your dose without permission from your doctor. Tablets may be taken with or without food.

Store Cozaar away from direct light and heat. Store in a dry location; avoid storing it in the bathroom, near sinks, or other areas where it may become damp. Do not use after the expiration date.

Keep Cozaar away from children; both when storing it, and when discarding any unused medication.

Cozaar and Pregnancy

Do not take Cozaar if you are pregnant. It may kill or harm the fetus.

Cozaar and Children

Cozaar is not approved for children.

Cozaar and Seniors

Lower dosages may be prescribed for seniors as they often have a higher sensitivity to this type of medication.

Prescription Cozaar - Through Accessmednet Physician Referral Network

Cozaar is a trademark of Merck

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This document is provided for information only. It is not a substitute for consultation with a physician, either to diagnose symptoms or prescribe treatment. Any dosages mentioned are general guidelines only, please follow the directions of your doctor or pharmacist exactly when taking medication. We have made every effort to ensure that this information is accurate, but only your doctor can say if a medication, or drug combination, is safe for you. Information intended for US residents only.